Tricks For Saving Money On Utilities
Utilities can be a real drain on your wallet, and this is true for most climates. If you live somewhere that gets cold, you've probably cursed the heating bills. If you live somewhere that has scorching summers, then you have probably thought twice about using the AC a couple of times after remembering those sky-high electric bills. In any event, there are actually a number of measures that you can take to dramatically reduce your utility bills for the rest of your life, such as:
1. Energy Efficient Upgrades
If you you have an older heater, air conditioner, dishwasher, refrigerator, or any other major appliance, then one of your best bets is to get an upgrade. While not every new appliance will be cheaper to run than your current unit, many do offer excellent efficiency. To find new appliances that will lead to savings down the road, check for awards and certifications by reputable organizations, such as Energy Star.
This increased efficiency in resource consumption directly translates to reduced utility bills. Of course, you will need to compare the upfront cost of the appliance to the relative savings over time, but if you plan on staying in your home for many years down the road, then an upgrade can even result in overall savings.
On top of that, saving money on utilities does not just mean lower bills for you, but it also has a positive impact on the environment. If you enjoy the idea of going green, then reduced consumption of natural resources should appeal to you.
2. Repairing Leaks, Holes, and Broken Seals
On the other hand, your problem might lie with a fixable problem somewhere in the flow of water or heat.
Leaks around your home can dramatically increase your water bills, in addition to causing frustrating water damage and mold. Finding leaks can be a bit of a challenge, but some early warning signs can include paint blisters on your walls, the recurrence of standing water in certain parts of your home, mold, or lower water pressure in specific parts of your home.
Holes in your insulation or broken seals around your windows or doors can also lead to a lot of lost heat. If your home feels particularly cold or drafty during the winter, even when the heater is running full bore, then there might be someplace that heat is escaping your home. Check every window and door to see if they fit in their frames properly, since those will be the most common points of failure. While it is possible to have problems with the insulation in your walls, replacing that insulation can be a pretty costly process, since it involves removing parts of your walls in order to access the insulation.
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